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Monster
Jolie DuPree has it all. Killer curves, endless confidence, and a shot to wow the judges at the National Dance Championship. Her plan for senior year is crush it on the dance floor, catch the eye of industry pros, and maybe bag the campus heartthrob along the way.
But when a wine-soaked disaster and an unexpected twin derail her plans, Jolie finds herself face-to-face with Maverick rugged, scarred, and brooding—the complete opposite of every guy she’s ever wanted.
Maverick may be a star on the football field, but when it comes to women, he's used to being ignored. Dismissed. Judged for a face he didn’t choose and a body that intimidates everyone in the room. Confidence? He’s never had it. Until Jolie barrels into his life with a stubborn desire to be his friend.
It’s not long before friendship turns into more. And somewhere between the late-night talks, whispered confessions, and moments of lingering touch, Jolie begins to realize that maybe the monster isn’t the villain of her story…
He’s the beginning.
But when a wine-soaked disaster and an unexpected twin derail her plans, Jolie finds herself face-to-face with Maverick rugged, scarred, and brooding—the complete opposite of every guy she’s ever wanted.
Maverick may be a star on the football field, but when it comes to women, he's used to being ignored. Dismissed. Judged for a face he didn’t choose and a body that intimidates everyone in the room. Confidence? He’s never had it. Until Jolie barrels into his life with a stubborn desire to be his friend.
It’s not long before friendship turns into more. And somewhere between the late-night talks, whispered confessions, and moments of lingering touch, Jolie begins to realize that maybe the monster isn’t the villain of her story…
He’s the beginning.
- GenresRomanceSports Romance
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2025
About the author
Kayla Parent
10 books86 followersKayla Parent has written over 150 digital stories and amassed hundreds of millions of reads across a dozen different platforms.
Depending on her mood that day, she writes—and loves—both romance and horror. Her goals are to either make you fall in love with her characters, or frighten you enough to worry that one of them is hiding under your bed.
She currently lives in Boston with her swoonworthy husband, her sweet son and her mischievous beagle, Gus. When she's not writing, she's usually reading. She's enamored with historical romance, mythology, folk tales and true-life crime. She's also a self-proclaimed champagne enthusiast, a chronic daydreamer, and popcorn fanatic.
Oh, and I love Instagram. Follow me!
@kaylaparent_writer
Depending on her mood that day, she writes—and loves—both romance and horror. Her goals are to either make you fall in love with her characters, or frighten you enough to worry that one of them is hiding under your bed.
She currently lives in Boston with her swoonworthy husband, her sweet son and her mischievous beagle, Gus. When she's not writing, she's usually reading. She's enamored with historical romance, mythology, folk tales and true-life crime. She's also a self-proclaimed champagne enthusiast, a chronic daydreamer, and popcorn fanatic.
Oh, and I love Instagram. Follow me!
@kaylaparent_writer
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 4, 2025
Jolie is the dance team captain, and her plan for senior year is to wow the judges on the dance floor, while Maverick is a broody, and scarred football player, who is bound to become and NFL football star. Maverick and Jolie are neighbors, and when her plans unexpectedly derail, she is face- to- face with Maverick, and they develop a bond, while being there to support each other.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with friendships, emotions, friends / lovers, opposites attract, insecurities, trust, communication, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, and compelling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with friendships, emotions, friends / lovers, opposites attract, insecurities, trust, communication, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, and compelling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 1, 2025
Monster by Kayla Parent
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was such a sweet and sexy story! While this novel is set during the usual Christmas in December, I had the wonderful chance to read it right alongside Christmas in July!
This story had perfectly curated pacing that kept me hooked for more. I am such a sucker for slow burns and Kayla created the best build up of anticipation and excitement. I giggled and smiled right along with Jolie and Maverick, rooting for their relationship the whole way. I loved seeing both characters confidence grow both in and outside their relationship. It felt like I was watching a movie. Bonus points for NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!!
✨Slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, city girl/country boy, football/dancer, Christmas✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was such a sweet and sexy story! While this novel is set during the usual Christmas in December, I had the wonderful chance to read it right alongside Christmas in July!
This story had perfectly curated pacing that kept me hooked for more. I am such a sucker for slow burns and Kayla created the best build up of anticipation and excitement. I giggled and smiled right along with Jolie and Maverick, rooting for their relationship the whole way. I loved seeing both characters confidence grow both in and outside their relationship. It felt like I was watching a movie. Bonus points for NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!!
✨Slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, city girl/country boy, football/dancer, Christmas✨
March 29, 2026
4.25/5 ⭐
"He's not the type of man you notice right away. But once you stop and pay attention, you can't look away. Once you see it, you see it. And I think it's time to be honest with myself.
I'm noticing him,
I see him.
And now I can't stop."
Monster by Kayla Parent was a fun, quick read that delivered cozy romance vibes from start to finish. It’s the kind of book that feels easy to sink into, with a light, feel-good tone that makes it hard to put down.
One of the standout elements for me was Jolie. I loved her confidence—she refuses to play coy for long, and after an initial rocky impression (both for Maverick and the reader), she quickly redeems herself. Beneath that first encounter, Jolie proves to be genuine and big-hearted, someone who truly wants the people around her to be happy. She’s not afraid to nudge others out of their comfort zones to make that happen, which made her especially refreshing as a main character.
Maverick had me hooked from the start. He fits that classic tough-exterior, soft-center archetype perfectly, and it’s hard not to fall for him. While Jolie and Maverick may seem like opposites on the surface—largely due to appearances and the roles they project—they’re actually quite similar at their core. Their shared outlook, along with overlapping likes and dislikes, makes their connection feel natural and believable.
This feel-good rom-com strikes a nice balance with just enough tension to keep things grounded. However, thanks to Jolie’s take-charge personality, the story doesn’t linger too long in that heavier space. That said, I did find myself wishing for more quiet, in-between moments between the two of them. The story tends to focus on the bigger, more pivotal scenes, and I would have loved a deeper look at the smaller interactions that truly build a relationship.
If this is representative of Kayla Parent’s style, I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more of her work. Monster is a great pick for getting out of a reading slump or when you’re simply in the mood for something sweet, light, and satisfying.
"He's not the type of man you notice right away. But once you stop and pay attention, you can't look away. Once you see it, you see it. And I think it's time to be honest with myself.
I'm noticing him,
I see him.
And now I can't stop."
Monster by Kayla Parent was a fun, quick read that delivered cozy romance vibes from start to finish. It’s the kind of book that feels easy to sink into, with a light, feel-good tone that makes it hard to put down.
One of the standout elements for me was Jolie. I loved her confidence—she refuses to play coy for long, and after an initial rocky impression (both for Maverick and the reader), she quickly redeems herself. Beneath that first encounter, Jolie proves to be genuine and big-hearted, someone who truly wants the people around her to be happy. She’s not afraid to nudge others out of their comfort zones to make that happen, which made her especially refreshing as a main character.
Maverick had me hooked from the start. He fits that classic tough-exterior, soft-center archetype perfectly, and it’s hard not to fall for him. While Jolie and Maverick may seem like opposites on the surface—largely due to appearances and the roles they project—they’re actually quite similar at their core. Their shared outlook, along with overlapping likes and dislikes, makes their connection feel natural and believable.
This feel-good rom-com strikes a nice balance with just enough tension to keep things grounded. However, thanks to Jolie’s take-charge personality, the story doesn’t linger too long in that heavier space. That said, I did find myself wishing for more quiet, in-between moments between the two of them. The story tends to focus on the bigger, more pivotal scenes, and I would have loved a deeper look at the smaller interactions that truly build a relationship.
If this is representative of Kayla Parent’s style, I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more of her work. Monster is a great pick for getting out of a reading slump or when you’re simply in the mood for something sweet, light, and satisfying.
July 8, 2025
Kayla Parent does it again! If you've loved her other books, don't wait to get her newest romance that will make you feel ALL the things...in the best way.
Jolie is the dance team captain that everyone wants. Blond, fit and charming, she's the hottest commodity on campus. And then there's Maverick, whose accident marked his face with a scar that most people can't get past. All anyone sees him as is a strong, NFL-bound football star. When Maverick moves in next door to Jolie during their senior year of college, a chance encounter turns both of their worlds upside down. Will they each be able to see past their insecurities and trust each other, all while winning their respective sporting events (dance competition for Jolie, football championship for Maverick)? You'll just have to read to find out!
The character development is strong, and the slow burn is absolutely delicious. As someone who has read her fair share of spicy romances, Kayla does an incredible job of building enough tension that will make readers want to explode with every scene. 10/10 ;)
I just had to know what happened between these two, so I devoured this book. If you want a spicy, new adult story that will make you wish you were there, go read Monster right now. Go!
Jolie is the dance team captain that everyone wants. Blond, fit and charming, she's the hottest commodity on campus. And then there's Maverick, whose accident marked his face with a scar that most people can't get past. All anyone sees him as is a strong, NFL-bound football star. When Maverick moves in next door to Jolie during their senior year of college, a chance encounter turns both of their worlds upside down. Will they each be able to see past their insecurities and trust each other, all while winning their respective sporting events (dance competition for Jolie, football championship for Maverick)? You'll just have to read to find out!
The character development is strong, and the slow burn is absolutely delicious. As someone who has read her fair share of spicy romances, Kayla does an incredible job of building enough tension that will make readers want to explode with every scene. 10/10 ;)
I just had to know what happened between these two, so I devoured this book. If you want a spicy, new adult story that will make you wish you were there, go read Monster right now. Go!
August 30, 2025
Friends to lovers
Sports romance
College romance
Slow burn
Opposites attract
Jolie and Maverick
This story has great character development. Jolie who is very popular and a bit self centered. Her first meeting with Maverick made her come off as a mean girl. She set out to fix his first impression.
Once she gets to know him things change.
Maverick is a large football player with a scar on his face. He has had a crush on Jolie People only care about his football skills. He has been used by the opposite sex as a way to get closer to his twin brother. He was wary of the attention from Jolie.
Maverick and Jolie are cute together. The two start a friendship that has a positive effect on Maverick’s reputation. He is seen as a hot commodity.
I loved how Jolie was patient either Maverick and his insecurities. It didn’t take long for her to see the great guy he was.
The side characters had a story of their own that is very interesting. However, for this story, their support was extremely strong.
Sports romance
College romance
Slow burn
Opposites attract
Jolie and Maverick
This story has great character development. Jolie who is very popular and a bit self centered. Her first meeting with Maverick made her come off as a mean girl. She set out to fix his first impression.
Once she gets to know him things change.
Maverick is a large football player with a scar on his face. He has had a crush on Jolie People only care about his football skills. He has been used by the opposite sex as a way to get closer to his twin brother. He was wary of the attention from Jolie.
Maverick and Jolie are cute together. The two start a friendship that has a positive effect on Maverick’s reputation. He is seen as a hot commodity.
I loved how Jolie was patient either Maverick and his insecurities. It didn’t take long for her to see the great guy he was.
The side characters had a story of their own that is very interesting. However, for this story, their support was extremely strong.
September 2, 2025
4.5 Stars
The blurb of this one had me intrigued enough to want to read this book. I'm so glad I did! Now hang in there with Jolie because yes at first she gives off some not bice vibes, but that's not the true her. Give her chance like I did. Now Maverick on the other hand had me from him helping out Linda. He had me swooning. That is one sure fire way to win over my heart in a flash. Maverick is a gentle giant. Too bad more people don't give him a chance based off appearances. Their loss. I really loved watching Jolie and Maverick's friendship begin and blossom into something beautiful. Can I just say this book also has me with how big of Christmas lovers Jolie and her BFF Ruby are. There is also a great sense of humor that drew me in. This is the first book I've read by Kayla Parent, but I can guarantee it won't be my last. Looking forward to more from this series!
The blurb of this one had me intrigued enough to want to read this book. I'm so glad I did! Now hang in there with Jolie because yes at first she gives off some not bice vibes, but that's not the true her. Give her chance like I did. Now Maverick on the other hand had me from him helping out Linda. He had me swooning. That is one sure fire way to win over my heart in a flash. Maverick is a gentle giant. Too bad more people don't give him a chance based off appearances. Their loss. I really loved watching Jolie and Maverick's friendship begin and blossom into something beautiful. Can I just say this book also has me with how big of Christmas lovers Jolie and her BFF Ruby are. There is also a great sense of humor that drew me in. This is the first book I've read by Kayla Parent, but I can guarantee it won't be my last. Looking forward to more from this series!
October 10, 2025
This was a very good romance with all the cozy feelings and feel good vibes you could ever have. The comfort romance is top notch with this story. Jolie is confident, unapologetic and just radiant and even though i thought i wouldn’t like her at first, she has pulled through. Maverick is just a sweetheart and his insecurities was his only downfall. I love a big marshmallow mc with virgin vibes so this was a winner for me.
{{ His eyes darken. Then, slowly, he leans in, fore-
head resting against mine.
"I don't deserve you, Jolie." he murmurs.
I smile, tilting my chin up until our lips almost touch. "I was just thinking the same thing about you."
He smiles at that. Dimples and all. }}
^ this is what i really liked about Jolie. She always complimented him back and boosted up his confidence. I love when we get equal treatment in a relationship.
{{ His eyes darken. Then, slowly, he leans in, fore-
head resting against mine.
"I don't deserve you, Jolie." he murmurs.
I smile, tilting my chin up until our lips almost touch. "I was just thinking the same thing about you."
He smiles at that. Dimples and all. }}
^ this is what i really liked about Jolie. She always complimented him back and boosted up his confidence. I love when we get equal treatment in a relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
This wonderfully written romance is about an unlikely connection and emotional healing. I loved how Jolie and Maverick’s friendship slowly blossoms into something deeper, filled with vulnerable moments and a powerful journey of self-acceptance for both. Not to mention, the chemistry between them is electric!
This story will make you believe in the transformative power of love.
This story will make you believe in the transformative power of love.
November 5, 2025
I don’t get the chance to read much but this is a must! It is fun, sexy and keeps you wanting more. I loved it! The author did an awesome job :)
December 19, 2025
I won this in a giveaway.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews